 |
|
This month we are very pleased to have another submitted article on the topic of suspected tektite impacts. This month's article was submitted by Phil Morgan.
|
|
|
This month we are very pleased to have another submitted article on the topic of suspected tektite impacts. This month's article was submitted by Phil Morgan.
Indochinite Showing Results of Suspected Impact
by Phil Morgan
Introduction
We have recently been presented three ideas for odd, generally circular or oval protrusions in tektites.
1) Impact of a smaller, solid body
2) Bubble blister
3) Bulge of the plastic interior
I will note a few features that lead me to believe this specimen is from an
impact. I am interested in other opinions or observations.
|
The specimen is generally spherical and fairly smooth with very small regular pitting. It may be somewhat abraded but is not frosted and has what I find to be quite an attractive sheen. |
The end with the protrusion is flattened. Applying the theories mentioned above I suppose this could either be from a) the force of impact or b) if one end popped off for some reason, the still molten core could have bulged.
Notice also that the bottom of the
piece is also quite flat except for a noticeable bump
beneath the feature in question - actually immediately below
and also on the bottom of the tektite. Was this caused by
the force of the smaller impacting tektite hitting at an
angle from above?
|
The specimen is very symmetrical and
displays quite nicely. There is one fairly deep hole but it
seems to be simply a small bubble pit.
|
Another shot showing the flattened
face and how it appears to almost be bent as if struck at
angle from above.
|
Phil Morgan can be reached at pkmorgan@ctcweb.net
